Ina Garten Cheese Ball Recipe

This Ina Garten Cheese Ball Recipe is a creamy and savory appetizer, which includes cream cheese and shredded cheddar. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, perfect for parties or holidays, and ready in about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

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Ina Garten Cheese Ball Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), for coating

How To Make Ina Garten Cheese Ball

1. Mix the cheese base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir or beat until smooth and fully combined.
2. Shape the cheese ball: Transfer the cheese mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to form it into a round ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Add the coating: Spread the chopped nuts onto a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it in the nuts, pressing lightly to coat all sides.
4. Serve: Place on a serving platter. Pair with crackers, sliced veggies, or breadsticks for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball 1–2 days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the nut coating right before serving.
• Can I use a different cheese?
  Absolutely. Try adding a little blue cheese, gouda, or Monterey Jack for flavor variation.
• What if I don’t want nuts?
  Roll in chopped herbs, crushed crackers, or crumbled bacon instead.
• How long will it last in the fridge?
  It stays fresh for up to 5 days, tightly wrapped.
• Can I freeze cheese balls?
  Yes, but for best texture, freeze before adding the coating and thaw in the fridge overnight.

What To Serve With Cheese Ball

This appetizer is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dippers, including:

• Butter crackers or water crackers
• Sliced cucumbers or bell peppers
• Pretzel rods
• Toasted baguette slices
• Breadsticks

How To Store Cheese Ball

Refrigerate: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freeze: Wrap the uncoated cheese ball in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and coat before serving.

Cheese Ball Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~150 per serving (based on 8 servings)
• Carbohydrates: ~2g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~13g
• Sodium: ~200mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, skip the nuts and roll the cheese ball in herbs, bacon bits, or crushed pretzels.

What if my cheese ball is too soft to shape?
Chill the mixture for 15–20 minutes, then try shaping it again using plastic wrap.

Is this suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes, as long as you avoid crackers and pair it with low-carb veggies.

Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, just double all ingredients and split into two smaller cheese balls for easier serving.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Rangoon Dip Recipe
• Ina Garten Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
• Ina Garten Stuffed Artichoke Recipe